Pestilence was one of the first major bands to emerge from the Dutch extreme metal scene of the 80s. While all the other groups from that era have since vanished into ancient history, Pestilence is as vital, relevant, and ambitious as ever. The band, still led by founding member
Patrick Mameli on vocals and guitar, is working on two albums and will embark on a European tour in 2024.
Formed in 1986 in Enschede in the east of the Netherlands, Pestilence immediately caught the attention of the country’s most important metal label, Roadrunner. With albums such as their debut “Malleus Maleficarum” (1988), the legendary “Consuming Impulse” (1989), the impressive “Testimony of The Angels” (1991) and the experimental “Spheres” (1993), they placed themselves at the forefront of the European extreme metal scene and toured non-stop.
After many line-up changes that led to two hiatuses, Pestilence returned in 2018 to prove that their story is not over and that they remain an uncompromising and essential band, with a unique sound and a reputation that continues to resonate across the decades. “Portals”, an album of brand-new material, is due for release next autumn, while “Levels of Perception” will feature reinterpretations of the band’s most classic songs.
